West Nile: Texas Combats Virus with Aerial Spraying

Several more cities in Dallas County have signed on for aerial mosquito spraying, including Dallas which has expanded its area of coverage.

On Wednesday Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings declared a state of disaster in the city because of West Nile, clearing the way for treatment from above.

He also decided all of the city rather than just the northern areas should be sprayed in an effort to wipe out the mosquito population.

"There was some discussion that hey we have some issues in the south as well. And to be considerate to citizens in the south as well we decided to do it throughout the whole city," Mayor Rawlings said. "It's my responsibility. I'll take the heat for it. And I think that's the right place to be."

The city said it's planning a media blitz to notify people about the spraying, which could begin as early as 8:30 p.m. Thursday night.

Billboards, websites, homeowners associations, the 311 tip line and even police and fire fighters will be out talking about exactly when it will happen and what people can expect.

The cities of Irving and Sachse declined the offer. Rowlett and Wylie did not respond. Other cities in the county south of Interstate 30 have not yet been contacted about aerial spraying.

In Tarrant County, Fort Worth has decided to start ground spraying. This is the first time in about 20 years that the city has sprayed for mosquitoes.

Ground spraying is expected to start Friday at 10 p.m. and continue for three consecutive nights.

Anyone with questions about the effects of the spray can also call the North Texas Poison Center's help line at 1-800-222-1222. The center is staffed with doctors, nurses and pharmacists and answers calls 24 hours per day.